Despite losing sluggers Jim Thome and Jason Kubel earlier Thursday to the 15-day disabled list, the Minnesota Twins’ offense picked up the slack for an 8-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals to open a four-game series. Michael Cuddyer drove in two runs for the Twins, who placed Thome and Kubel on the DL because of a strained left quadriceps and sprained left ankle, respectively. Ben Revere, Kubel’s replacement, had an RBI double to help Minnesota snap a four-game slide and collect just its third win in 13 games. Twins starter Anthony Swarzak (1-2) recorded his first win since July 26, 2009, allowing just two runs on seven hits over six frames. Jeff Francoeur drove in the only two runs for the Royals, who have lost nine of their last 12. Starter Sean O’Sullivan (2-5) was pounded for seven runs — three earned — on eight hits over just 2 2/3 innings to get the loss.